Lawn fertilizer makes grass healthy and green. It is a source of vital nutrients that may not be found in the soil. The right fertilizer at the right time keeps lawns thick, strong and good-looking.
What Is a Lawn Fertilizer?
Lawn fertilizer is a product built to feed grass. It provides the lawn with the nourishment it needs to develop, stay green and protect against issues like weeds and diseases. When grass doesn’t receive adequate nutrients, it may appear patchy, weak or yellow.
Main Nutrients in Lawn Fertilizer
Every type of lawn fertilizer contains three key nutrients. They all do something for the grass.
Nitrogen (N)
Nitrogen makes grass grow quickly and look green. It’s the most important nutrient for most lawns. But too much nitrogen can cause the grass to grow too fast, and not as strongly. It might also result in more mowing, and heighten the risk of disease.
Phosphorus (P)
Root growth and plant strength are promoted by phosphorus. It is typically used when planting new grass or when the soil does not contain enough of it. In many regions, the use of phosphorus is now restricted to avoid environmental damage, particularly in areas near lakes and rivers.
Potassium (K)
Potassium helps grass withstand stress, such as heat or cold. It repels disease and helps the lawn regenerate from wear or damage.
Types of Lawn Fertilizer
Not all fertilizers are created equal, and the different types cater to different needs. They each feed the grass differently.
1. Granular Fertilizer
Granular type fertilizers are dry and made up of tiny particles. They are spread on the lawn, using a fertilizer spreader. Some types of fertilizer release their nutrients quickly; others slowly over time. It's also usually easier to store and apply granular fertilizers.
2. Liquid Fertilizer
Water-soluble fertilizer is mixed with water and typically sprayed on the lawn. They’re quick and they’re great for little repairs. But they may have to be used more frequently than granular forms.
3. Slow-Release and Organic Fertilizers
Slow-release fertilizers provide nutrients to the grass slowly over an extended time. This will minimize the potential for burning the grass, and it will limit any runoff. Organic fertilizers, such as compost or manure, also slowly feed the lawn and enrich the soil naturally.
Choosing the Right Fertilizer
To choose the best fertilizer, it is useful to know what the lawn needs. That varies depending on soil, type of grass and local regulation of fertilizers.
Check the Soil First
The soil test will reveal which nutrients are lacking in the lawn. It helps determine the type of fertilizers to apply and how much. On the labels of fertilizer are often the N-P-K ratio, which means nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.
For instance, a fertilizer labeled 15-5-10 would contain 15 percent nitrogen, 5 percent phosphorus and 10 percent potassium.
Know the Grass Type
Grasses vary season by season and they must be pulled from the ground and mowed when they need fertilizer.
- Cool-season grasses (including fescue and Kentucky bluegrass) are most vigorous in spring and autumn.
- Warm season grasses (such as Bermuda or zoysia) come in the fast-growing grass category as they prefer the heat of summer and late spring.
Knowing the type of grass helps plan when and how often to fertilize.
How to Apply Fertilizer
Putting down the right amount of fertilizer benefits the lawn and saves money. Time, tools and technique are all important.
Best Time to Fertilize
The ideal time to fertilize varies according to the type of grass.
- Cool-season grasses: Fertilize lightly in the spring and heavily in early fall. Fertilizing in the fall helps roots grow stronger.
- Warm-season grasses: Begin in late spring and repeat in high summer. The best weather for the growth of these grasses is warm seasons.
Don't fertilize shortly before heavy rain, during heatwaves or when the grass is stressed.
Tools for Fertilizer Application
Apply granular fertilizer with a broadcast spreader or drop spreader. These are the tools that help with that. Slightly overlap each pass to avoid striping in the lawn.
For liquid fertilizers, apply with a sprayer or hose-end applicator. Read the label to spray evenly.
How Much Fertilizer to Use
The proper amount varies, depending on the product and the size of the lawn. Some fertilizers recommend applying 0.5 to 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet. Don’t use more than necessary; extra can burn the grass when it is greening up or run off into waterways.
Fertilizer and the Environment
Using fertilizer the right way is important for the environment. Too much fertilizer can wash into rivers and lakes, causing pollution.
Avoid Runoff
Don’t put fertilizer down before it rains hard. The rain will take the fertilizer to storm drains, then to streams and ponds. This can result in the growth of algae and hurt plants and fish that live there.
Simple Tips to Protect Nature
- Check the soil before fertilizing.
- Whenever there is an option, select slow-release or organic kinds.
- After applying fertilizer, water the lawn lightly (unless it is imminent).
- Never fertilize around lakes, streams, or ditches.
- Adhere to the local regulations on the use of fertilizer.
Benefits of Using Lawn Fertilizer
Fertilizer is more than just green grass. It makes the lawn grow stronger, thicker and better able to deal with stress.
A Healthier Lawn
A thick lawn that’s well-fed will shade out weeds. It is greener looking, feels softer underfoot and stays healthier longer.
Stronger Roots and Better Stress Resistance
Grass that receives additional nourishment develops deeper roots. These roots help the turf fend for itself against drought, heat, cold and foot traffic. Potassium in particular helps the grass to defend against disease and injury.
Tips for Better Results
When fertilizing the lawn, sometimes a few extra steps can really make a difference.
- Mow prior to fertilizing so the material reaches the soil.
- Water after applying, unless rain is expected. This allows nutrients to feed the root system.
- When fertilizing grass, keep granular fertilizer off sidewalks and driveways, and sweep it back into the lawn if necessary.
- Never store it with children and pets around.
Conclusion
Lawn fertilizer is an essential part of having a healthy, beautiful lawn. It feeds grass the nutrients it needs to grow strong, resisting future problems such as disease, insect damage and drought. Understanding the different types of fertilizer and how to use them properly will allow anyone to maintain a lawn that is good for the environment and long-lasting.